How does a VPN protect data?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, primarily protects data through encryption. When a user connects to a VPN, the data packets transmitted between the user's device and the VPN server are encrypted. This means that the information is converted into a coded format that is unreadable to anyone who might intercept it during transmission, such as hackers or other malicious actors. This encryption ensures that sensitive information, like passwords, personal data, and browsing activity, remains confidential and secure.

Moreover, the secure connection established by a VPN not only protects data from eavesdroppers on local networks but also helps in safeguarding the integrity of the data being sent. This is crucial, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks, where the risk of interception is significantly higher. By encrypting the data packets, a VPN effectively provides a shield around the information being transmitted.

In contrast, the other options lack the core element of data security provided by encryption. Masking the user’s IP address without encryption leaves the data exposed, rerouting traffic without encryption does not ensure privacy, and restricting access to specific websites does not inherently protect data being transmitted. Thus, the primary function and advantage of a VPN in terms of data protection lies in its ability to encrypt data packets.